Meresaa takes up position behind the giant mushroom, ensuring that the bulk of her body is obscured. Lighting another sack, she lobs it at tentacle #2. The small sack accurately finds tentacle #2, sailing over the top of Toska, it bursts into flame once it strikes its intended target. In response, the tentacle thrashes and slams the ground. Its skin looks blistered and sore where the sack hit.
Nikita's Turn
Nikita pours the potion of healing into what she assumes is the creature's mouth. The Sagacitas' skin absorbs a great deal of the fluid. Twitching, the creature begins to stand shakily on its four legs.
Initiative: 15
Feelings of gratitude wash over Nikita as the Sagacitas stands before her. The enormous tentacles cease to sway and thrash instead they shoot up rigidly into the air; tentacle #3 relinquishes its grip on Tree Knight #2.
"What have I done?!" Sedgewick parrots. "Reggie? Ah yes, he made an interesting test subject." The aberration murmurs and whispers to itself. "He refused to... acquiesce to our plans. He was more concerned with Asha." Theodore chuckles to himself. "Asha... A genius undoubtedly. But I found out the truth! Do you think that everything was her idea? Certainly, she had knowledge of the fey crossing." He laughs to himself once more. "Oh yes, we are well aware of what it is. Her knowledge and her ability were unsurpassed! Forever I was in her shadow."
"Truth is, she was guided. I found her journals! Drawings, sketches, diagrams of a land a mirror of our own. Fanciful dreams and visions... the knowledge to create the..." Sedgewick is cut short as the ground tremors.
A sharp wind blows around the observatory. "BETRAYER!"Asha's voice hisses. "The veil is lifting... the connection between planes is strengthening. Do you not know? Can you not see? Step down, Theodore. Your place is no longer within Saltmarsh."
"Never!" Sedgewick screams, the mouths covering his body chatter and mumble, drowning out Asha's voice. The noise is maddeningly loud.
Sagacitas' Turn
Bounding into action, the Sagacitas wastes little time. The creature moves towards the nearest tentacle (#2), its own tentacle appendages reach out and touch it gently.
Nikita (please see spoiler):
Images and feelings emanate from the Sagacitas' mind; you are reminded of your home in Celene, of better times, of friendship and fellowship. You are certain that the images you witness are unique to yourself, however, whatever images are being implanted in the enormous tentacle seem to be having a calming effect.
Unity. You are certain that is the overriding message being sent from the Sagacitas.
Almost inexplicably, the enormous tentacle that stood rigid one moment, ceases to exist the next. The dog-like Sagactias is now the size of a small pony. Extra tentacles sprout and an extra maw (not quite a head) appears. Over the din, Sedgewick curses and shouts.
Tentacle #2 is no more. The Sagacitas seems renewed by the merging.
Enormous Tentacles' Turns
Standing rigid, the tentacles do nothing, frozen in place.
Toska's Turn
Unaware of what has transpired. Toska, still blinded, swings wildly at Sedgewick.
Great Axe (disadvantage): Attack: 12, 7
Unfortunately, her attack fails to connect, sailing far wide of its target.
Wisdom Saving Throw: 8
"Get outta my 'ead!" the orc woman yells, clutching at her head.
The battle begins to swing in the party's favour. The enormous tentacles that had previously been under Sedgewick's sway seem to stand dormant. Unperturbed by the horrors met within the observatory, the Tree Knight Captain's will is more iron than wood. Constantly issuing gestured commands to its underlings, it is clear to see that the Captain is in its element. Furthermore, the incessantly loud gibbering seemed to not be affecting the wooden knights.
Readying another attack against its foe, the Captain proceeds to bring his longsword slicing down twice:
Longsword Strike #1: Attack: 13(Miss)
Longsword Strike #2: Attack: 13 (Miss)
Both attacks manage to find their mark but fail to penetrate Sedgewick's unnaturally thickened skin. Raising its left hand, the entangling roots and ivy starts to wrap itself around Sedgewick's giant legs.
Root Grasp: 5 (Miss)
((Well, those were some fantastic rolls!))
Tree Knights' Turns
#1 - Following its captain's lead, Tree Knight #1 tries desperately to strike the aberration.
Thornsword: Attack: 6 (Miss)
Once more, its sword fails to connect with Sedgewick.
#2 - Now free of the tentacle (#3), the Tree Knight quickly shuffles into melee range of Sedgewick. It slashes at him ferociously.
The thorny sword bites into Sedgewick's side, creating a nasty gash.
#3 - Similarly to the other Tree Knights. This Tree Knight slices and cuts with his thornsword, attempting to bring Sedgewick low.
Thornsword: Attack: 9 (Miss)
However, Sedgewick sees the attack coming and is able to avoid it.
#4 - The last of the Tree Knights moves its branch-like head from side to side in dismay. Lunging forward, it attempts to strike through Sedgewick's defences.
Thornsword: Attack: 6 (Almost a nat 1! Miss)
The attack finds only air and misses its intended target by a clear foot.
Boyd - Your mind seems to have cleared a little. Currently, you stand with one of Sedgewick's tentacle appendages wrapped tightly around your body, restraining you. Though the battle seems to be going in your favour, the Tree Knights have struggled to deal significant damage to the aberration. The opportunity presents itself, will you break free from Sedgewick's grasp? It is your turn. ((Due to Ermasnietsz's spell, you can have advantage on your attempt to overcome the tentacle's grasp (DC 14 Strength Saving Throw required).))
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
Tree Knight Captain - 21 - Green Tree Symbol + Tree Knights (x4) - Small Green Shield Symbols
Boyd - 19 - Tan Dagger Symbol
Theodore Sedgewick - 18 - Black Alien Symbol
Ermasnietsz - 17 - Orange Infinity Symbol
Faila - 17 - Pink Staff Symbol
Sagacitas 'Octopony' - 15 - Light Blue Dog Symbol
Meresaa - 12 - Dark Blue Gun Symbol
Nikita - 10 - Purple Wand Symbol
Enormous Tentacles (2/3) - 7 - Black Small Shield Symbols (#1 currently restrained by ivy/flora)
Boyd jerks to consciousness / lucidity and yells like a normal, non-possessed person. Gaining a burst of adrenaline from his near-death predicament, he tears the rubbery tentacle off his half-crushed chest and falls to the ground with a grunt.
Str save: 16 (in chat log. Thanks for advantage, Erma)
He flings his returning dagger wildly at Ted's face to make him flinch (bonus action disengage) which buys him half a moment to tumble back out of the window. He rolls onto the ground and clutches his chest in agony.
Regaining his senses and fueled by desperation, Boyd manages to break free from Sedgewick's tentacle grasp. Giving the aberration no chance to comprehend what was happening, he flings his dagger at its face, distracting it. The distraction gives him enough time to rush back to the western window and dive through, collapsing on the ground to the north of Faila.
Theodore Sedgewick's Turn
Unfazed by his prey escaping, Sedgewick turns his bulging body, quickly surveying the observatory. He wheezes and gasps, as though moving his hulking body is causing him effort and pain. Mumbling and muttering to himself, occasional words can be discerned within his rambling; mentions of "old one" and "gift"frequently appear.
Turning his bloated form toward the Tree Knight captain, a wild glint of insanity enters Sedgewick's eyes. "You're with her and all, aren't you!"he bellows at the captain. "You're all with her! Bloody witch!"
Two of the tentacles come shooting from Sedgewick's back and attempt to grasp the Tree Knight Captain.
Tentacle #1: Attack: 12
Tentacle #2: Attack: 16, Damage: 7 (bludgeoning)
Captain Opposed Grapple Check (Str): 19
The first tentacle crashes ineffectually to the ground, missing its target. However, the second grabs onto the Tree Knight Captain and begins to wrap around its armoured body. The captain squirms and pushes with its branch-arms, successfully avoiding becoming grappled. Sedgewick curses and shouts out of frustration.
Ermasnietsz - Your quick thinking has managed to help Boyd escape Sedgewick's grasp. You watch as he bolts through the window behind you and to safety. Sedgewick, meanwhile, appears to have turned his attention toward the Tree Knight Captain, his long tentacles attempt to grapple and wrap around your new-found ally. The volume of aberration's murmuring is rising once more, paranoid ramblings, most of which are unintelligible. It is your turn.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ermasnietsz (The Timekeeper)
Ermasnietsz eagerly listens to the conversation going on between the aberration and the living plant. She's been trying to wait for a moment when the strange hostile creature would expose its vulnerability. Then, it might be easy to take advantage of the situation.
"Your assumption is wrong, Mr. Sedgewick. You can consider me as an ally since we have some common features and interests. I can protect you from my subordinates if you wish."
As Boyd hurtles out the window, landing on the ground near her clutching his chest, Faila utters a cry. "Boyd!" She rushes to the fallen man, holding her hands out--soft, normal, human hands, no claws trying to grow--to touch him. A glow ripples from her touch into the man's barrel chest, knitting his wound together.
The vines filling the observatory crackle and wither as she loses concentration on them.
Cure Wounds for 4 points of healing for Boyd. Wisdom Saving Throw: 8
Consumed by paranoia, undisturbed by the seemingly overwhelming odds, his mind too far gone to contemplate surrender, Sedgewick turns and faces Ermasnietsz. "An ally?!" He snorts, muttering to himself. "Tell me, ally. Are you prepared to slit the throats of your subordinates? To allow me to feed upon them?" he chuckles. "Perhaps you too serve His Most Profane Eminence? If so, aid me in destroying the walking trees then turn your attention toward the blue woman and the elf. Slay them and you may be spared."
After Sedgewick's declaration, several of the smaller mouths laugh and giggle along with him; their shrill laughter is mocking and cruel.
Nikita - You are well aware that His Most Profane Eminence is an alternate name for Iuz.
Faila's Turn
Faila, reaching out with her normal human hands, touches the wounded Boyd. Instantaneously, several of the cuts and lesions covering his body close and knit together. From within the observatory, Faila can hear an inhumane cackling. It claws at her mind, filling her with a sense of dread and fear of what may be happening within the building.
Sagactias' Turn
With renewed strength, the Sagactias bounds over to tentacle #1, paying little heed to Sedgewick's ravings. Once there, it reaches out with its own tentacle appendages and slowly pulls the enormous tentacle towards it. Similarly to before, one second the enormous tentacle seems quite apart from the Sagacitas, the next it appears grafted onto its own body; yet another large maw appears on the body of the creature and yet more tentacles sprout. As a result, the Sagacitas is now the size of a regular horse rather than a small pony.
Tentacle #1 is no more. The Sagacitas looks significantly healthier and stronger than it did mere seconds ago.
Meresaa - Whereas many might have succumbed to madness after experiencing Sedgewick's crazed rant, your mind is as keen and alert as it ever is. Quickly surveying the scene, you are aware that the battle still seems favourable to the party; the Sagacitas now appears not only revitalised but also several feet taller than previously. The root and vine growth that was present in the centre of the room has started to wither and decay. Ermasnietsz attempted reason but it appears the aberration's mind is too broken. It falls to you to take the initiative, it is your turn.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Almond-shaped violet eyes rapidly dart around, taking in and processing new data as the situation continues to unfold. Seeing Boyd moved to relative safety removed her most pressing concern but there was much yet to be done. The vedalken smirks at Ermasnietsz's attempt at subterfuge and allows herself a fleeting moment to imagine what might have transpired had it been successful.
Steeling herself for further action, she leaps out from behind her safeguarding saprophyte and darts past the tentacled Cerberus-stallion (northeast corner of the rug) and lights another exploding sack. She heaves it at Sedgewick's bulbous form, hoping one of those infernal chittering mouths would manage to catch it as it exploded.
Action: Fire bolt - Attack: 8 Damage: 5 fire damage WIS save: 20
Nikita sees the Sagacitas re-integrating with the now docile tentacles, growing larger. She feels mostly relief, though a slight pang of worry.
You are becoming whole. We are still friends, are we not? Just making sure. The thought she sends the Sagacitas is lighthearted but slightly nervous.
She is in the midst of trying to decipher Ermasnietsz's gambit when she hears the gibbering mass of mouths and tentacles that once was Sedgewick utter the words "His Most Profane Eminence" and all other thought exits her brain. Her head snaps around and Nikita snarls despite herself.
Her mind roils, hatred overcoming reason. IUZ? You serve Iuz? So this wasn't just about greed. You serve that abyssal spawn that killed my friends??!
With extreme effort, she maintains her bladesong, and her concentration on Protection from Evil and Good, but her the form and precision of her attack falter, particularly now without Thumbtack to grant her help. In her rage, she swings the rapier clumsily, wildly, as if it were a longsword.
Nikita's attack with rapier and Booming Blade: To hit: 12 Damage: 6 piercing
Nikita DC 10 WIS Save: 15 (all rolls on character sheet, visible in campaign log).
Darting past the Sagacitas, Meresaa reaches the northeast side of the room. She throws another burning sack towards Sedgewick. Unfortunately, perhaps overcome by the moment, her throw is too strong and the sack sails over the aberration's head, striking the wall to the southwest. The multiple mouths covering Sedgewick's body twist and turn, nipping violently at the air.
Nikita's Turn
The Sagacitas turns in Nikita's direction. Feelings of completeness and wholeness wash over her. Yet that is not all, a powerful longing, an urge for more to join the collective; we... are... one... The words form in Nikita's mind. One... does... not... belong... Images flood her mind in quick succession, they depict the creatures' home plane, their breeding pools. You... must... help... one... Its head tilts as it relays the messages. Friends..? Does... one... want... to... join... the... collective?
Screams. Ear piercing and deafening. The sound of multiple screams from multiple mouths, twisted and demonic, angry and vengeful. The gibbering stops and chanting starts from the mouths covering Sedgewicks bloated and bulbous body; "IUZ! IUZ! IUZ! IUZ!". Fear reigns. "SILENCE,"Sedgewick bellows. Silence. A soft laugh, almost a giggle, breaks the silence, followed by another and then another.
"Greed? Greed is a tool. It was greed that enabled the creation of the Sanguine Cabal. Greed that stirred Brinck and Molloy to aid me in my endeavours. It was the accumulation of wealth that led to certain doors becoming opened,"his voice drips with malice. "Greed never held sway over me. Power on the other hand,"he chuckles. "Look how the Lord of Pain has blessed me!" His tentacles swing wildly around his head, smashing the wooden ceiling overhead and causing chunks of timber to rain down.
"Long have I bided my time. Who should I happen upon but a young professor with unparalleled planar knowledge. One, perhaps, with the knowledge to connect the Prime Material Plane with the Abyssal Plane. Alas, it was not to be. An awful incident occurred." Sedgewick's voice fills with faux pity. "Poor Asha was spirited away... The portal led not to that which I desired but rather to the feyrealm." He lets out a sigh, which is, in turn, immediately mimicked by several of the mouths upon his body. "The whole incident was not without its benefits though,"he says turning and looking menacingly at the Sagacitas.
"Tell me,"Sedgewick says to Nikita. "Have you felt the effects of the Sagacitas' life drain?" Wicked grins spread across his mouths. "Excruciating, I am sure. Perhaps, before all is said and done, you may have first-hand experience... for I do so hunger."
Hearing enough, Nikita clumsily swings her rapier at Theodore Sedgewick. It misses. The aberration smiles.
Toska's Turn
More than aware of the pull Iuz has over many of her kin, Toska stares blankly at Sedgewick. Normally unflappable, her face turns to sheer terror as the mouths along the aberrations body mock and taunt Nikita. "It... It can't be... I," she mumbles to herself, lost for words. "Sain' Cuthbert, I..."
Gibbering Check: 3(do nothing)
As Toska invokes the name, Sedgewick whisks around and shoots her a look of pure venom.
The Captain hacks at Sedgewick, cutting massive wounds into the aberration's body.
Tree Knights' Turns
#1 - Spurred on by its captain's example. The Tree Knight (#1) slashes at Sedgewick with its thornsword.
Thornsword: Attack: 5 (Miss)
However, its attack is rough and clumsy, missing Sedgewick by a large margin.
#2 - Also swings at Sedgewick with its thornsword.
Thornsword: Attack: 17, Damage:7
The thornsword connects with one of Sedgewick's tentacles, severing it. It momentarily squirms on the ground before lying still.
#3 - Spotting its chance, Tree Knight (#3) stabs at Sedgewick with its thornsword.
Thornsword: Attack: 18, Damage:3
#4 - Finally, Tree Knight (#4) spots an opening and attempts to strike Sedgewick.
Thornsword: Attack: 10 (Miss)
The attack ricochets off of Sedgewick's unnaturally thick hide.
Boyd - Thanks to Faila, several of the cuts across your body have healed. You hear the sound of shouting and crazed laughter ringing out from the observatory. Theodore Sedgewick, in spite of his confidence, seems worse for wear. Multiple wounds litter his body and one of his tentacles has been severed. The Tree Knights seem to be giving a good account of themselves as they rain down blow upon blow. It feels like the end is drawing near, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
Tree Knight Captain - 21 - Green Tree Symbol + Tree Knights (x4) - Small Green Shield Symbols
Boyd - 19 - Tan Dagger Symbol
Theodore Sedgewick - 18 - Black Alien Symbol
Ermasnietsz - 17 - Orange Infinity Symbol
Faila - 17 - Pink Staff Symbol
Sagacitas 'Octopony' - 15 - Light Blue Dog Symbol
Meresaa - 12 - Dark Blue Gun Symbol
Nikita - 10 - Purple Wand Symbol
Enormous Tentacles (1/3) - 7 - Black Small Shield Symbols
Boyd smiles and nods at Faila gratefully. "Getting an angle... not running..." he half-whispers to her as he limps away. He wraps around the outside of the building, staying low, and looks for another window to surprise the blobby monstrosity from.
When he finds one (hopefully there's one within 30 feet), he catches the end of Ted's revelation and sees his reaction to the mention of Saint Cuthbert. Suddenly popping up from behind the window (bonus action hide: stealth 8), Boyd yells: "This one's for Procan... and the children!" and lobs Meresaa's returning dagger right for between the monster's eyes.
Attack: nat 1...
Wis save: 20
He plugs his ears while he waits for the dagger to magically return.
Knowledge from the past life: Wisdom Saving Throw 4 + 6
(I believe it's not too late to reconsider the fact that knowledge from past life doesn't apply to the saving throws. Rolling a d8 to determine action for current turn: 1)
Knowledge from the past life: Wisdom Saving Throw 4 + 6
(I believe it's not too late to reconsider the fact that knowledge from past life doesn't apply to the saving throws. Rolling a d8 to determine action for current turn: 7)
((I wondered if that was the case. Thanks for being honest.))
((Working out the movement, Boyd would not have been able to move to another window without dashing. However, given the relatively low hide roll, I'm happy with retconning that Boyd was able to dash as a BA (Cunning Action), hence reaching the northern window.))
Boyd dashes to the north, in an attempt to get a better angle on Sedgewick. Peering into the observatory, he watches as Sedgewick goes toe-to-toe with the Tree Knights and Toska. Boyd waits for an opening to attack and, when he finds it, throws his dagger, aiming for Sedgewick's head. Unfortunately, the dagger does not go very far as it lodges itself in the nearby window frame ((ouch on the natural '1')). Thankfully, he does not appear to have caught Sedgewick's attention.
Sedgewick's Turn
His attention still firmly fixed upon Toska, Sedgewick lashes out at her with two of his remaining tentacles.
Tentacle #1: Attack: 26, Damage: 12
Strength Saving Throw: 6
Tentacle #2: Attack: 18, Damage: 13
Shrill laughter echoes around the room as both tentacles wickedly smack and crash into Toska. The orc bravely attempts to fight off the tentacles' grip but it is to no avail. Toska, losing her mind, screams and shouts for assistance as the tentacles begin to squeeze.
Ermasnietsz - Overcome by Sedgewick's gibbering, you feel compelled to strike out at anyone or anything within melee range. However, given that there is nobody within striking range, you end up staring, open-mouthed, at Sedgewick as his tentacles wrap themselves around Toska.
Faila - Please roll 1d8 for the effect the gibbering has on you; On a 1 to 4, the creature does nothing. On a 5 or 6, the creature takes no action or bonus action and uses all its movement to move in a randomly determined direction. On a 7 or 8, the creature makes a melee attack against a randomly determined creature within its reach or does nothing if it can't make such an attack.
Faila smiles with relief at Boyd as he limps back to the fight, but she continues to stand there frozen, her hands outstretched as if still trying to heal, to make something whole, as her mind is blasted by the gibbering.
Rolled a 4 for the Wisdom Saving Throw in the campaign log.
Paying little heed to the actions of Sedgewick, the Sagacitas creature trots over to the remaining, immobile tentacle. As before, powerful psychic messages, mainly in the form of images and emotions, are transmitted by the creature; feelings of solidarity and inclusion are accompanied by visions of the creature's home plane.
Tentacle #3 is no more. The Sagacitas seems a lot stronger now.
Once the tentacle has been absorbed by the greater mass, a clear message echoes in everyone's minds; WHOLE. The creature's form shimmers and grows to the point that it struggles to avoid the high-ceiling, looking cramped and crammed in. In addition to its initial mouth, three further large maws cover its body. Multiple eyes can now be seen. Tentacles writhe and wriggle at the top of the creature, its long thick-set legs are hooved and muscular.
The transformed Sagacitas grabs Sedgewick's attention. His long, dripping tongue slathers drool over his bulbous lips. "Have you ever seen anything like it?"he asks out loud. "Such power..." He becomes lost in thought, "surely it is a gift. A sign from the great Iuz."
Meresaa - The strange, gibbering mouths littering Sedgewick's body have unnerved you. You momentarily lose control of your senses. Please roll 1d8; On a 1 to 4, you do nothing. On a 5 or 6, you take no action or bonus action and use all your movement to move in a randomly determined direction. On a 7 or 8, you make a melee attack against a randomly determined creature within your reach or do nothing if you can't make such an attack.
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #2 - Meresaa & Nikita's Turns
Meresaa's Turn
Meresaa takes up position behind the giant mushroom, ensuring that the bulk of her body is obscured. Lighting another sack, she lobs it at tentacle #2. The small sack accurately finds tentacle #2, sailing over the top of Toska, it bursts into flame once it strikes its intended target. In response, the tentacle thrashes and slams the ground. Its skin looks blistered and sore where the sack hit.
Nikita's Turn
Nikita pours the potion of healing into what she assumes is the creature's mouth. The Sagacitas' skin absorbs a great deal of the fluid. Twitching, the creature begins to stand shakily on its four legs.
Feelings of gratitude wash over Nikita as the Sagacitas stands before her. The enormous tentacles cease to sway and thrash instead they shoot up rigidly into the air; tentacle #3 relinquishes its grip on Tree Knight #2.
"What have I done?!" Sedgewick parrots. "Reggie? Ah yes, he made an interesting test subject." The aberration murmurs and whispers to itself. "He refused to... acquiesce to our plans. He was more concerned with Asha." Theodore chuckles to himself. "Asha... A genius undoubtedly. But I found out the truth! Do you think that everything was her idea? Certainly, she had knowledge of the fey crossing." He laughs to himself once more. "Oh yes, we are well aware of what it is. Her knowledge and her ability were unsurpassed! Forever I was in her shadow."
"Truth is, she was guided. I found her journals! Drawings, sketches, diagrams of a land a mirror of our own. Fanciful dreams and visions... the knowledge to create the..." Sedgewick is cut short as the ground tremors.
A sharp wind blows around the observatory. "BETRAYER!" Asha's voice hisses. "The veil is lifting... the connection between planes is strengthening. Do you not know? Can you not see? Step down, Theodore. Your place is no longer within Saltmarsh."
"Never!" Sedgewick screams, the mouths covering his body chatter and mumble, drowning out Asha's voice. The noise is maddeningly loud.
Sagacitas' Turn
Bounding into action, the Sagacitas wastes little time. The creature moves towards the nearest tentacle (#2), its own tentacle appendages reach out and touch it gently.
Nikita (please see spoiler):
Images and feelings emanate from the Sagacitas' mind; you are reminded of your home in Celene, of better times, of friendship and fellowship. You are certain that the images you witness are unique to yourself, however, whatever images are being implanted in the enormous tentacle seem to be having a calming effect.
Unity. You are certain that is the overriding message being sent from the Sagacitas.
Almost inexplicably, the enormous tentacle that stood rigid one moment, ceases to exist the next. The dog-like Sagactias is now the size of a small pony. Extra tentacles sprout and an extra maw (not quite a head) appears. Over the din, Sedgewick curses and shouts.
Enormous Tentacles' Turns
Standing rigid, the tentacles do nothing, frozen in place.
Toska's Turn
Unaware of what has transpired. Toska, still blinded, swings wildly at Sedgewick.
12, 7Unfortunately, her attack fails to connect, sailing far wide of its target.
"Get outta my 'ead!" the orc woman yells, clutching at her head.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
(Meresaa WIS save: 16)
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #3 - Start of Round
Tree Captain's Turn
The battle begins to swing in the party's favour. The enormous tentacles that had previously been under Sedgewick's sway seem to stand dormant. Unperturbed by the horrors met within the observatory, the Tree Knight Captain's will is more iron than wood. Constantly issuing gestured commands to its underlings, it is clear to see that the Captain is in its element. Furthermore, the incessantly loud gibbering seemed to not be affecting the wooden knights.
Readying another attack against its foe, the Captain proceeds to bring his longsword slicing down twice:
Both attacks manage to find their mark but fail to penetrate Sedgewick's unnaturally thickened skin. Raising its left hand, the entangling roots and ivy starts to wrap itself around Sedgewick's giant legs.
((Well, those were some fantastic rolls!))
Tree Knights' Turns
#1 - Following its captain's lead, Tree Knight #1 tries desperately to strike the aberration.
Once more, its sword fails to connect with Sedgewick.
#2 - Now free of the tentacle (#3), the Tree Knight quickly shuffles into melee range of Sedgewick. It slashes at him ferociously.
The thorny sword bites into Sedgewick's side, creating a nasty gash.
#3 - Similarly to the other Tree Knights. This Tree Knight slices and cuts with his thornsword, attempting to bring Sedgewick low.
However, Sedgewick sees the attack coming and is able to avoid it.
#4 - The last of the Tree Knights moves its branch-like head from side to side in dismay. Lunging forward, it attempts to strike through Sedgewick's defences.
The attack finds only air and misses its intended target by a clear foot.
Boyd - Your mind seems to have cleared a little. Currently, you stand with one of Sedgewick's tentacle appendages wrapped tightly around your body, restraining you. Though the battle seems to be going in your favour, the Tree Knights have struggled to deal significant damage to the aberration. The opportunity presents itself, will you break free from Sedgewick's grasp? It is your turn. ((Due to Ermasnietsz's spell, you can have advantage on your attempt to overcome the tentacle's grasp (DC 14 Strength Saving Throw required).))
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Boyd jerks to consciousness / lucidity and yells like a normal, non-possessed person. Gaining a burst of adrenaline from his near-death predicament, he tears the rubbery tentacle off his half-crushed chest and falls to the ground with a grunt.
Str save: 16 (in chat log. Thanks for advantage, Erma)
He flings his returning dagger wildly at Ted's face to make him flinch (bonus action disengage) which buys him half a moment to tumble back out of the window. He rolls onto the ground and clutches his chest in agony.
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #3 - Boyd's Turn
Boyd's Turn
Regaining his senses and fueled by desperation, Boyd manages to break free from Sedgewick's tentacle grasp. Giving the aberration no chance to comprehend what was happening, he flings his dagger at its face, distracting it. The distraction gives him enough time to rush back to the western window and dive through, collapsing on the ground to the north of Faila.
Theodore Sedgewick's Turn
Unfazed by his prey escaping, Sedgewick turns his bulging body, quickly surveying the observatory. He wheezes and gasps, as though moving his hulking body is causing him effort and pain. Mumbling and muttering to himself, occasional words can be discerned within his rambling; mentions of "old one" and "gift" frequently appear.
Turning his bloated form toward the Tree Knight captain, a wild glint of insanity enters Sedgewick's eyes. "You're with her and all, aren't you!" he bellows at the captain. "You're all with her! Bloody witch!"
Two of the tentacles come shooting from Sedgewick's back and attempt to grasp the Tree Knight Captain.
The first tentacle crashes ineffectually to the ground, missing its target. However, the second grabs onto the Tree Knight Captain and begins to wrap around its armoured body. The captain squirms and pushes with its branch-arms, successfully avoiding becoming grappled. Sedgewick curses and shouts out of frustration.
Ermasnietsz - Your quick thinking has managed to help Boyd escape Sedgewick's grasp. You watch as he bolts through the window behind you and to safety. Sedgewick, meanwhile, appears to have turned his attention toward the Tree Knight Captain, his long tentacles attempt to grapple and wrap around your new-found ally. The volume of aberration's murmuring is rising once more, paranoid ramblings, most of which are unintelligible. It is your turn.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Ermasnietsz (The Timekeeper)
Ermasnietsz eagerly listens to the conversation going on between the aberration and the living plant. She's been trying to wait for a moment when the strange hostile creature would expose its vulnerability. Then, it might be easy to take advantage of the situation.
"Your assumption is wrong, Mr. Sedgewick. You can consider me as an ally since we have some common features and interests. I can protect you from my subordinates if you wish."
Action: Improvise an action: Persuasion 8
Wisdom Saving Throw: 16
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
Knowledge from the past life: Wisdom Saving Throw 4 + 3
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
As Boyd hurtles out the window, landing on the ground near her clutching his chest, Faila utters a cry. "Boyd!" She rushes to the fallen man, holding her hands out--soft, normal, human hands, no claws trying to grow--to touch him. A glow ripples from her touch into the man's barrel chest, knitting his wound together.
The vines filling the observatory crackle and wither as she loses concentration on them.
Cure Wounds for 4 points of healing for Boyd.
Wisdom Saving Throw: 8
All rolled in Game Log.
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #3 - Ermasnietsz & Faila's Turns
Ermasnietsz's Turn
Consumed by paranoia, undisturbed by the seemingly overwhelming odds, his mind too far gone to contemplate surrender, Sedgewick turns and faces Ermasnietsz. "An ally?!" He snorts, muttering to himself. "Tell me, ally. Are you prepared to slit the throats of your subordinates? To allow me to feed upon them?" he chuckles. "Perhaps you too serve His Most Profane Eminence? If so, aid me in destroying the walking trees then turn your attention toward the blue woman and the elf. Slay them and you may be spared."
After Sedgewick's declaration, several of the smaller mouths laugh and giggle along with him; their shrill laughter is mocking and cruel.
Nikita - You are well aware that His Most Profane Eminence is an alternate name for Iuz.
Faila's Turn
Faila, reaching out with her normal human hands, touches the wounded Boyd. Instantaneously, several of the cuts and lesions covering his body close and knit together. From within the observatory, Faila can hear an inhumane cackling. It claws at her mind, filling her with a sense of dread and fear of what may be happening within the building.
Sagactias' Turn
With renewed strength, the Sagactias bounds over to tentacle #1, paying little heed to Sedgewick's ravings. Once there, it reaches out with its own tentacle appendages and slowly pulls the enormous tentacle towards it. Similarly to before, one second the enormous tentacle seems quite apart from the Sagacitas, the next it appears grafted onto its own body; yet another large maw appears on the body of the creature and yet more tentacles sprout. As a result, the Sagacitas is now the size of a regular horse rather than a small pony.
Meresaa - Whereas many might have succumbed to madness after experiencing Sedgewick's crazed rant, your mind is as keen and alert as it ever is. Quickly surveying the scene, you are aware that the battle still seems favourable to the party; the Sagacitas now appears not only revitalised but also several feet taller than previously. The root and vine growth that was present in the centre of the room has started to wither and decay. Ermasnietsz attempted reason but it appears the aberration's mind is too broken. It falls to you to take the initiative, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Almond-shaped violet eyes rapidly dart around, taking in and processing new data as the situation continues to unfold. Seeing Boyd moved to relative safety removed her most pressing concern but there was much yet to be done. The vedalken smirks at Ermasnietsz's attempt at subterfuge and allows herself a fleeting moment to imagine what might have transpired had it been successful.
Steeling herself for further action, she leaps out from behind her safeguarding saprophyte and darts past the tentacled Cerberus-stallion (northeast corner of the rug) and lights another exploding sack. She heaves it at Sedgewick's bulbous form, hoping one of those infernal chittering mouths would manage to catch it as it exploded.
Action: Fire bolt - Attack: 8 Damage: 5 fire damage
WIS save: 20
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
Nikita sees the Sagacitas re-integrating with the now docile tentacles, growing larger. She feels mostly relief, though a slight pang of worry.
You are becoming whole. We are still friends, are we not? Just making sure. The thought she sends the Sagacitas is lighthearted but slightly nervous.
She is in the midst of trying to decipher Ermasnietsz's gambit when she hears the gibbering mass of mouths and tentacles that once was Sedgewick utter the words "His Most Profane Eminence" and all other thought exits her brain. Her head snaps around and Nikita snarls despite herself.
Her mind roils, hatred overcoming reason. IUZ? You serve Iuz? So this wasn't just about greed. You serve that abyssal spawn that killed my friends??!
With extreme effort, she maintains her bladesong, and her concentration on Protection from Evil and Good, but her the form and precision of her attack falter, particularly now without Thumbtack to grant her help. In her rage, she swings the rapier clumsily, wildly, as if it were a longsword.
Nikita's attack with rapier and Booming Blade:
To hit: 12
Damage: 6 piercing
Nikita DC 10 WIS Save: 15 (all rolls on character sheet, visible in campaign log).
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #3 - Meresaa & Nikita's Turns
Meresaa's Turn
Darting past the Sagacitas, Meresaa reaches the northeast side of the room. She throws another burning sack towards Sedgewick. Unfortunately, perhaps overcome by the moment, her throw is too strong and the sack sails over the aberration's head, striking the wall to the southwest. The multiple mouths covering Sedgewick's body twist and turn, nipping violently at the air.
Nikita's Turn
The Sagacitas turns in Nikita's direction. Feelings of completeness and wholeness wash over her. Yet that is not all, a powerful longing, an urge for more to join the collective; we... are... one... The words form in Nikita's mind. One... does... not... belong... Images flood her mind in quick succession, they depict the creatures' home plane, their breeding pools. You... must... help... one... Its head tilts as it relays the messages. Friends..? Does... one... want... to... join... the... collective?
Screams. Ear piercing and deafening. The sound of multiple screams from multiple mouths, twisted and demonic, angry and vengeful. The gibbering stops and chanting starts from the mouths covering Sedgewicks bloated and bulbous body; "IUZ! IUZ! IUZ! IUZ!". Fear reigns. "SILENCE," Sedgewick bellows. Silence. A soft laugh, almost a giggle, breaks the silence, followed by another and then another.
"Greed? Greed is a tool. It was greed that enabled the creation of the Sanguine Cabal. Greed that stirred Brinck and Molloy to aid me in my endeavours. It was the accumulation of wealth that led to certain doors becoming opened," his voice drips with malice. "Greed never held sway over me. Power on the other hand," he chuckles. "Look how the Lord of Pain has blessed me!" His tentacles swing wildly around his head, smashing the wooden ceiling overhead and causing chunks of timber to rain down.
"Long have I bided my time. Who should I happen upon but a young professor with unparalleled planar knowledge. One, perhaps, with the knowledge to connect the Prime Material Plane with the Abyssal Plane. Alas, it was not to be. An awful incident occurred." Sedgewick's voice fills with faux pity. "Poor Asha was spirited away... The portal led not to that which I desired but rather to the feyrealm." He lets out a sigh, which is, in turn, immediately mimicked by several of the mouths upon his body. "The whole incident was not without its benefits though," he says turning and looking menacingly at the Sagacitas.
"Tell me," Sedgewick says to Nikita. "Have you felt the effects of the Sagacitas' life drain?" Wicked grins spread across his mouths. "Excruciating, I am sure. Perhaps, before all is said and done, you may have first-hand experience... for I do so hunger."
Hearing enough, Nikita clumsily swings her rapier at Theodore Sedgewick. It misses. The aberration smiles.
Toska's Turn
More than aware of the pull Iuz has over many of her kin, Toska stares blankly at Sedgewick. Normally unflappable, her face turns to sheer terror as the mouths along the aberrations body mock and taunt Nikita. "It... It can't be... I," she mumbles to herself, lost for words. "Sain' Cuthbert, I..."
As Toska invokes the name, Sedgewick whisks around and shoots her a look of pure venom.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #4 - Start of Round
Tree Captain's Turn
Spotting a need to stop Sedgewick's taunts, the Tree Knight Captain swings twice at the aberration with its longsword.
The Captain hacks at Sedgewick, cutting massive wounds into the aberration's body.
Tree Knights' Turns
#1 - Spurred on by its captain's example. The Tree Knight (#1) slashes at Sedgewick with its thornsword.
However, its attack is rough and clumsy, missing Sedgewick by a large margin.
#2 - Also swings at Sedgewick with its thornsword.
The thornsword connects with one of Sedgewick's tentacles, severing it. It momentarily squirms on the ground before lying still.
#3 - Spotting its chance, Tree Knight (#3) stabs at Sedgewick with its thornsword.
#4 - Finally, Tree Knight (#4) spots an opening and attempts to strike Sedgewick.
The attack ricochets off of Sedgewick's unnaturally thick hide.
Boyd - Thanks to Faila, several of the cuts across your body have healed. You hear the sound of shouting and crazed laughter ringing out from the observatory. Theodore Sedgewick, in spite of his confidence, seems worse for wear. Multiple wounds litter his body and one of his tentacles has been severed. The Tree Knights seem to be giving a good account of themselves as they rain down blow upon blow. It feels like the end is drawing near, it is your turn.
Battlemap:
Initiative Order:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Boyd smiles and nods at Faila gratefully. "Getting an angle... not running..." he half-whispers to her as he limps away. He wraps around the outside of the building, staying low, and looks for another window to surprise the blobby monstrosity from.
When he finds one (hopefully there's one within 30 feet), he catches the end of Ted's revelation and sees his reaction to the mention of Saint Cuthbert. Suddenly popping up from behind the window (bonus action hide: stealth 8), Boyd yells: "This one's for Procan... and the children!" and lobs Meresaa's returning dagger right for between the monster's eyes.
Attack: nat 1...
Wis save: 20
He plugs his ears while he waits for the dagger to magically return.
(I believe it's not too late to reconsider the fact that knowledge from past life doesn't apply to the saving throws. Rolling a d8 to determine action for current turn: 1)
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
((I wondered if that was the case. Thanks for being honest.))
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #4 - Boyd's Turn
Boyd's Turn
((Working out the movement, Boyd would not have been able to move to another window without dashing. However, given the relatively low hide roll, I'm happy with retconning that Boyd was able to dash as a BA (Cunning Action), hence reaching the northern window.))
Boyd dashes to the north, in an attempt to get a better angle on Sedgewick. Peering into the observatory, he watches as Sedgewick goes toe-to-toe with the Tree Knights and Toska. Boyd waits for an opening to attack and, when he finds it, throws his dagger, aiming for Sedgewick's head. Unfortunately, the dagger does not go very far as it lodges itself in the nearby window frame ((ouch on the natural '1')). Thankfully, he does not appear to have caught Sedgewick's attention.
Sedgewick's Turn
His attention still firmly fixed upon Toska, Sedgewick lashes out at her with two of his remaining tentacles.
Shrill laughter echoes around the room as both tentacles wickedly smack and crash into Toska. The orc bravely attempts to fight off the tentacles' grip but it is to no avail. Toska, losing her mind, screams and shouts for assistance as the tentacles begin to squeeze.
Ermasnietsz - Overcome by Sedgewick's gibbering, you feel compelled to strike out at anyone or anything within melee range. However, given that there is nobody within striking range, you end up staring, open-mouthed, at Sedgewick as his tentacles wrap themselves around Toska.
Faila - Please roll 1d8 for the effect the gibbering has on you; On a 1 to 4, the creature does nothing. On a 5 or 6, the creature takes no action or bonus action and uses all its movement to move in a randomly determined direction. On a 7 or 8, the creature makes a melee attack against a randomly determined creature within its reach or does nothing if it can't make such an attack.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Faila smiles with relief at Boyd as he limps back to the fight, but she continues to stand there frozen, her hands outstretched as if still trying to heal, to make something whole, as her mind is blasted by the gibbering.
Rolled a 4 for the Wisdom Saving Throw in the campaign log.
Sedgewick Scrap! - Round #4 - Sagactias' Turn
Sagacitas' Turn
Paying little heed to the actions of Sedgewick, the Sagacitas creature trots over to the remaining, immobile tentacle. As before, powerful psychic messages, mainly in the form of images and emotions, are transmitted by the creature; feelings of solidarity and inclusion are accompanied by visions of the creature's home plane.
Once the tentacle has been absorbed by the greater mass, a clear message echoes in everyone's minds; WHOLE. The creature's form shimmers and grows to the point that it struggles to avoid the high-ceiling, looking cramped and crammed in. In addition to its initial mouth, three further large maws cover its body. Multiple eyes can now be seen. Tentacles writhe and wriggle at the top of the creature, its long thick-set legs are hooved and muscular.
The transformed Sagacitas grabs Sedgewick's attention. His long, dripping tongue slathers drool over his bulbous lips. "Have you ever seen anything like it?" he asks out loud. "Such power..." He becomes lost in thought, "surely it is a gift. A sign from the great Iuz."
Meresaa - The strange, gibbering mouths littering Sedgewick's body have unnerved you. You momentarily lose control of your senses. Please roll 1d8; On a 1 to 4, you do nothing. On a 5 or 6, you take no action or bonus action and use all your movement to move in a randomly determined direction. On a 7 or 8, you make a melee attack against a randomly determined creature within your reach or do nothing if you can't make such an attack.
Battlemap:
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
1d8: 3 (in campaign roller)
Meresaa stands still, staring at the vile Sedgewick, mouth agape.
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age